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How to Fix Cortana Not Working After Windows 11 Anniversary Update: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you have recently updated your Windows 11 to the Anniversary Update and found that Cortana is not working, you are not alone. Many users face this issue due to changes or glitches introduced during the update. Fortunately, there are several straightforward solutions to get Cortana back up and running.

This article will guide you through easy, step-by-step instructions to fix Cortana issues after the update. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By carefully working through these solutions, you should be able to restore Cortana’s functionality and enjoy its features again. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Take your time and follow the steps in order, as they move from simple to more advanced troubleshooting.

Quick Note: Pre-Check Before Fixing Cortana

  • Check Internet Connection: Cortana requires internet access to work properly. Make sure you are connected to a stable network.
  • Windows Version: Confirm that your PC is indeed running the latest Anniversary Update for Windows 11. You can check this by going to Settings > System > About.
  • Restart Your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches caused by the update.
  • Check Microphone and Permissions: Cortana needs microphone access and permission to work. Make sure these are enabled in Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.

Step 1: Restart Cortana Process

Sometimes, Cortana may freeze or stop responding. Restarting its process can help refresh it.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Look for Cortana or Cortana.exe in the list.
  3. Click on it and then select End Task.
  4. After a few seconds, Cortana should restart automatically. If not, click the Windows search bar or press Windows key + S to start it manually.

Why this helps: Ending the process clears any temporary bugs or memory issues causing Cortana to freeze.

Step 2: Check Cortana Permissions and Privacy Settings

Cortana needs permission to access your microphone, location, and other data to function properly. Incorrect settings can block it.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I.
  2. Navigate to Privacy & Security > Microphone.
  3. Make sure the toggle for Microphone access is turned on.
  4. Scroll down to find the list of apps and ensure Cortana has permission enabled.
  5. Similarly, check Settings > Privacy & Security > Location and make sure Cortana has access if you want location-based results.

Why this matters: Without the right permissions, Cortana cannot listen or provide personalized responses.

Step 3: Run the Windows Search and Indexing Troubleshooter

The Anniversary Update may affect Windows Search, which Cortana relies on heavily. Running the troubleshooter can fix related issues.

  1. Open Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  2. Find Search and Indexing in the list.
  3. Click Run next to it.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions and select problems you are experiencing, such as “Cortana not responding” or “Search not working.”
  5. Apply the recommended fixes.

Why run this: This troubleshooter automatically detects and repairs common search-related problems affecting Cortana.

Step 4: Re-register Cortana Using Windows PowerShell

If Cortana still does not work, re-registering its app package can fix corrupted files or settings.

  1. Click the Start button and type PowerShell.
  2. Right-click Windows PowerShell and select Run as administrator.
  3. Copy and paste the following command into the PowerShell window and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.549981C3F5F10 | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}
  1. Wait for the command to complete, then restart your computer.

Why this helps: This command reinstalls and re-registers Cortana’s app files, fixing corruption caused by updates.

Step 5: Update Windows and Device Drivers

Outdated system files or drivers may cause Cortana to malfunction after an update.

  1. Open Settings and go to Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
  3. Restart your PC after updates are installed.
  4. Also, update your audio and microphone drivers via Device Manager.

Why update: Updates often include bug fixes that resolve compatibility issues affecting Cortana.

Alternative Method: Use System File Checker (SFC) Scan

If Cortana is still not working, system files may be corrupted. The System File Checker can repair these files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for “cmd”, right-click, and select Run as administrator).
  2. Type the command below and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

The scan will take some time. Once done, it will automatically fix any corrupted system files it detects. Restart your computer afterward.

FAQs

Why did Cortana stop working after the Windows 11 Anniversary Update?

The update sometimes changes system files and privacy settings or causes bugs that interrupt Cortana’s normal operation.

Is Cortana still supported in Windows 11?

Yes, but Microsoft has shifted Cortana’s role to a productivity assistant rather than a general voice assistant. It needs proper setup to work well.

Can I use voice commands if Cortana is not working?

No, voice commands depend on Cortana or other voice assistant services. Fixing Cortana is necessary for voice input functionality.

Will resetting my PC fix Cortana issues?

Resetting is a last resort. It can fix deep system problems but should only be done if all other solutions fail.

How do I disable Cortana if I don’t want to use it?

You can disable Cortana via Settings > Apps > Apps & features, then search for Cortana and choose to uninstall or disable it.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and Cortana is still not functioning, consider the following final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for personalized help.
  • Create a New User Account: Sometimes, user profiles get corrupted. Creating a new Windows user account might solve the issue.
  • Perform a System Restore: Roll back your system to a point before the update if possible.
  • Reset Windows 11: This will reinstall Windows but keep your files. Use this only if all else fails.

Conclusion

Cortana not working after the Windows 11 Anniversary Update can be frustrating, but most issues are fixable with the right steps. Always start with simple fixes like restarting the process and checking permissions before moving to more advanced solutions like re-registering Cortana or running system scans.

Regularly updating Windows and drivers helps prevent these problems in the future. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to Microsoft Support or consider system restore options.

By following this guide carefully, you should be able to restore Cortana’s functionality and continue using it effortlessly on your Windows 11 PC.

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